Dockyard Day 2026 Draws Strong Community Turnout at Nelson’s Dockyard National Park

The Antigua and Barbuda National Parks Authority successfully hosted Dockyard Day 2026, welcoming a vibrant crowd of residents and visitors to Nelson’s Dockyard National Park for a full day of cultural celebration, competitions, and family-friendly entertainment.

The annual event, held on Saturday, May 2nd, transformed the historic Dockyard into a lively hub of activity, featuring a wide range of competitions, interactive experiences, and live entertainment. Patrons enjoyed a festive atmosphere filled with music, local food and drinks, and engaging activities for all ages, including playground areas, toys vendors and games for children.

A major highlight of the day was the lineup of competitive events, which drew enthusiastic participation and crowd support. Winners included:

• Five-A-Side Steelband Competition:
   1st Place – Princess Margaret Secondary School [$5000]
   2nd Place – All Saints Secondary School [$2500]
   3rd Place – Clare Hall Secondary School [$1000]
• Greasy Pole: Demarley Davis [$800]
• Kayak Race: Shanoy Malone [$300]
• Bun Eating Competition: Cleyon Thompson [$200]
• Sack Race (Adult): Danielle Grey [$200]
• Sack Race (Child): Kaedya King [$100]
• Hula Hoop Competition (Child): Chalyse Ambrose (1st), Marciah Roberts (2nd), Angel Paul (3rd), Christenique Smith (4th) [$100]
• Hula Hoop Competition (Adult): Isaiah Tonge, Ashley Bersma [$200]
• Beer Drinking Competition: Bobby [$300 and a case of beer]
• Model Boat Regatta (in order of place): Numbers, Quarantine, Semper Fi
• Tug of War: Antigua & Barbuda Defense Force [$2500]

The event also featured the highly anticipated Beating of the Retreat by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, adding a ceremonial and cultural highlight to the day’s proceedings.

“Dockyard Day continues to be one of our most important community events, bringing together heritage, culture, and entertainment in a way that engages both residents and visitors,” said [Mrs. Ann Marie Martin, Parks Commissioner]. “We are proud to see the level of participation and support this year, and we thank everyone who contributed to its success. We can’t wait to welcome you again (bigger and better) next year!”

Dockyard Day plays a key role in fostering community engagement while supporting the National Parks Authority’s mission to preserve and promote the cultural and historical significance of the park. Events such as these also contribute to the local economy by supporting vendors, performers, and small businesses.

The National Parks Authority extends sincere thanks to all participants, sponsors, volunteers, and patrons who made Dockyard Day 2026 a success, and looks forward to welcoming the public again next year.

The Antigua and Barbuda National Parks Authority is responsible for the preservation, management, and development of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, related archaeological sites, and the general surrounding areas. The Authority works to protect the park’s cultural heritage, natural environment, and archaeological resources while supporting sustainable tourism, education, and community engagement.

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